NPR News: 05-07-2026 12AM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from May 7, 2026, rounds up severe weather damage in Mississippi, escalations in Middle East conflicts amid fragile ceasefires, a new poll tying President Trump's low approval to Iran war-driven gas prices, advances in Asian financial markets, a federal ruling on 2020 Georgia election ballots, and a deadly hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship.

Mississippi Tornado Damage

Officials in Mississippi are assessing widespread destruction after a series of tornado warnings. Scott Simmons of the State Emergency Management Agency reported damage to about 815 structures in Franklin and Lincoln Counties, including the agency's own emergency operations center. Governor Tate Reeves confirmed multiple tornadoes in central and western parts of the state, with a major one in Franklin County causing extensive harm and trapping people inside damaged homes. The focus remains on rescue efforts and damage evaluation, highlighting vulnerabilities in emergency infrastructure during severe storms.